Federal agents searching a South Valley home near Albuquerque seized roughly half a pound of cocaine, three guns, $22,000 and 60 snakes, including cobras, mambas, pit vipers, pythons and an inland taipan. Wildlife officials said most of the reptiles are venomous and would require immediate medical treatment if they bit someone. The animals are currently housed at a permitted facility while the state seeks permanent placements with trained staff. Authorities have not released arrest records and the investigation into cocaine distribution is ongoing.
Drug Raid Near Albuquerque Seizes 60 Snakes — Including an Inland Taipan — Plus Cocaine, Guns and $22,000
A snake resting on a rock surrounded by some dry vegetationCredit: KOAT/YouTube
Federal agents executing a search warrant at a South Valley home near Albuquerque recovered far more than suspected drug evidence: they seized roughly half a pound of cocaine, three firearms, $22,000 in cash and an unexpected menagerie of 60 snakes.
Variety of Species Found
According to the law-enforcement inventory, the reptiles included cobras, mambas, pit vipers and pythons. Several animals were listed by name — pythons called "Sunset" and "William" and cobras nicknamed "Blizzard" and "Pablo Escobar" — and the report also identified an inland taipan, widely regarded as one of the most venomous snakes on Earth.
Safety Concerns and Community Reaction
Officials from the New Mexico Department of Wildlife told reporters that most of the captured snakes are venomous and that bites from many of the species would require immediate medical attention. Neighbors said the discovery left the community shaken. "There are a lot of kids here. And one of those goes out, and they're gone. I just stay away from snakes. I'm really upset," one resident told reporters.
"Somebody having drop for drop the most venomous snake on the planet in captivity just outside of Albuquerque was pretty surprising to me," said Connor Sharp, a professional snake wrangler, who noted that medical facilities in New Mexico likely would not stock antivenom for an inland taipan.
Animal Care and Next Steps
Officials say the reptiles appeared to be in good condition after professional examinations and are currently housed at a permitted facility. The state is working to identify appropriate permanent placements, and transfers will be made only to facilities with trained staff and the capability to manage venomous reptiles safely.
PEOPLE reached out to the New Mexico Department of Wildlife for additional information but had not received a response at the time of reporting. Authorities have not released records of any arrests related to the raid.
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